On August 30 2014 I will set off on a 12 day journey with a fabulous group of people (the number is growing daily) to walk The Wainwrights Coast to Coast from St Bees Head to Robin Hood Bay, effectively walking across England.

 

For those wondering why I would leave my family behind in sunny Sydney to return to my homeland and struggle across uneven terrain for up to 42kms a day for 12 days-not to mention enduring the unpredictable British climate...

Here's why...

 

1.There are 2.5 million people worldwide who are living with Multiple sclerosis.

For the past 22 years I have been one of them.

2.Because I believe I still can!

M.S is an unpredictable disease and whilst I have lived my own roller coaster of visual loss, mobility issues, irretractable pain and crushing fatigue over the years, I know that there are so many people who are travelling a much tougher journey than me.

3.I want to be part of finding a cure.

I have seen and been part of  the advances in the treatments for MS and firmly believe that a cure is not far away. Fundraising is vital for this research to continue.

 

4. I love a challenge! 

In 2010 I walked  270kms from Mudgee (country NSW) to Sydney over 10 days with the help and encouragement of an amazing bunch of individuals led by Katrina Hemingway (whose Husband Mike has MS). It was one of my lifes greatest achievements and one I will never forget.  The Wainwrights Walk is an even bigger challenge- It's further, the terrain is more rugged and my M.S has progressed since 2010 but I refuse to believe it cannot be done.

 

5.I will have the BEST company

 I get to walk with  amazing bunch of individuals, each with their own story, who continue to inspire me every day (see their stories on www.c2cmswalk.org). They are the ones who will walk with me, pick me up when I fall, laugh  with me  and will celebrate each milestone along the way.We are going to have a ball!

 

6.Because it was mean't to be...

Last but by no means least, by coincidence,my parents who have guided me, supported me and inspired me my entire life are celebrating their 50th wedding Anniversary on 12/9/14, the day after the walk finishes.I could not have justified a solo trip without this celebration to attend...and so you see, just like like Martin and Terry, it was meant to be!

 

Thankyou for reading my story. I would love you to be involved in this adventure in whatever way you can... whether that be via donation or joining us on the walk.

 

See you in August xx Deb xx